1. EmployeeBenefits ERS, TRS, Health Insurance, Flexible Spending, Retirement

2. Employees Retirement System (ERS) vs. Teachers Retirement System (TRS)

3. Health Insurance How have our healthcare benefits changed with the move from BlueCross to United HealthCare? HealthSelect is a self-funded managed care point-of-service (POS) plan. The ERS Board of Trustees control the benefits covered by HealthSelect based on funding available from the Legislature. Because ERS controls the plan design, a change in administrator does not change the benefits structure. The HealthSelect administrator is contracted to pay claims, provide customer service, offer health and wellness programs, and manage the HealthSelect provider network.

4. TexFlex (Healthcare and Dependent Care Accounts) What are the potential changes to TexFlex contributions based on IRS Notice 2012-40, and when do the changes take place? Notice 2012-40 does not apply to the ERS Flexible spending accounts until plan year 2014 (September 1, 2013-August 31, 2014). One of the myriad of requirements contained within the HealthCare Reform Act is a dollar limit on health flexible spending accounts. In previous years the IRS has not put a cap on healthcare spending accounts (generally employers stuck to $5,000) however, beginning with the calendar year 2013 participants will be limited to contributions up to $2,500. Because the ERS plan year does not begin until 9/1/2013, the changes do not have to be implemented until that time.

5. RETIREMENT How are the rates for purchasing TRS service credit changing, and what is the effective date for new rates? All forms of service credit purchase will increase beginning with any purchase started after August 31,2013. How are discounts and benefits available to retirees communicated? Retiree benefits are listed on the UNT Human Resources website. This information is also presented to employees when they meet with a benefits representative to retire or discuss retirement.

6. RETIREMENT • For those planning to retire in the next year, whom should they contact in HR? The Benefits department • Can staff talk with an HR person if they’re not comfortable doing that online? Absolutely. A big part of what we do is help people understand when they can retire, what to do to prepare, and what to expect as it relates to social security, TRS annuities, lump sum and beneficiary options. • How far in advance should employees begin the process prior to retirement? Employees should visit a benefits representative the year prior to their expected retirement date. Approximately 3-4 months prior to retirement, employees should contact TRS or go online and request their retirement packets. Once you receive your packet, you should contact the Benefits area to help you review your packet and ensure all required documents are completed accurately and timely.